frame spread

oldspert

oldspert

Senior Member
Anybody guess how much would the frame have to be spread if a person pulled the engine and installed new rubber cushions? Just planning ahead of pulling my engine to do clutch work and would like to replace the side cushions.
Ed
 
It varies, when I reinstalled my engine in 2020, I didn't replace my 10 year old rubbers and I didn't need to spread the frame. Without the benefit of actual extensive experience, I guess from my two instances, only 1/4" at most, usually. Lots of help, huh? :)
 
if you are pulling the engine anyway, it is easy to replace the engine mount rubber pads while the engine is out. i know of no reason to spread the frame. you might consider a float-a- motor.
 
Some replacement rubber pads are thicker than the original pads. The thicker pads require spreading the frame, while the correct solution is to find/make the thickness just like the originals!
 
I wouldn't spread it any more than it needed to be to shoe horn it in there. There was a time when the pads were crap. Currently, I would trust the more reputable parts vendors to sell a product that fits the bushings and is close to original dimensions. If it doesn't, then send it back.
 
The reproduction rubber pads are thicker than the original Firestone pads, so it makes installing an engine difficult. Having installed many engines, I have never spread the frame rails. I have always been able to pry the engine into place, but it is a pain in the derriere to do. Try leaving the metal spacers out of the rubber pads and compress the pads by tightening the bolts. Once the engine is on, install the spacers.
 
I pulled my engine during a reconstruction, replaced the rubber pads, and upon reinstallation found the frame width to be a hair wider than expected. I don't think it is a problem, but we'll see.
 
Typically with new rubber in the mounts you can wiggle and pry the engine back in, or a frame spreader to spread the frame an 1/8" to 1/4" and things pretty much slide back in
 
What does a frame spreader look like (photo)? I have new pads but Float-A-Motor mounts, so the many times I have taken the engine in and out I have not needed a spreader.
 
I made one from scrap 2.5" square tubing. Works from underneath the car just aft of the rear motor mounts. The last time I did an engine swap in my car I wished I had one - had to bulldog the engine both in and out...whew!
 

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